Changi Village Bus Hotel: Bus Driver Transforms Discarded Buses into Quirky Hotel
The Bus Collective – the Instagram-worthy Changi Village bus hotel is taking the internet by storm. Check out what this unique bus themed eco-friendly hotel has to offer.
Imagine a stay where your room is a meticulously transformed, retired bus – a space where every nook bears witness to a journey once taken.
It’s just that the echo of distant travels is now replaced by a tranquil serenity, offering a unique escape from the ordinary.
This is The Bus Collective, the viral Changi Village bus hotel in Singapore, where discarded buses are recycled for a new purpose, and guests discover an experience that defies convention.
Officially unveiled on November 5, the Changi Village Bus Hotel is set to welcome its first guests starting from December 1.
The Changi Village Bus Hotel is the First of its Kind in South East Asia
Founded by Micker Sia, a former bus driver turned travel entrepreneur, this eco-friendly hotel is nestled on an expansive 8,600 sq m plot adjacent to the vibrant Changi Village Hawker Centre.
The Bus Collective showcases 20 decommissioned Scania public buses, once in service with SBS Transit, skillfully upcycled into opulent suites. Each suite boasts approximately 45 sqm of space, offering guests a lavish and eco-conscious retreat.
Original bus features such as windows, driver seats, and steering wheels have been thoughtfully retained, preserving the authenticity of the space.
With configurations catering to different preferences, every room, including those with bunk beds and wheelchair-accessible facilities, provides a comfortable and Instagrammable setting.
The Transformative Idea Behind Bus Recycling
Although Mr. Sia has spent around 35 years in the travel industry, he spent his transformative years as a bus driver and was always curious about recycling old buses.
Mr. Sia revealed, “The buses we scrape are generally in good condition, so I always wondered why discard them. Why squander resources that could be repurposed and recycled for a greater purpose?”
Addressing the media during the property’s grand inauguration on Sunday, Mr. Sia revealed that the seeds of his vision of a hotel sprouted in 2021, amid the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
As his unique concept of bus recycling evolved, he sought the approval of the Singapore government, which welcomed his innovative approach to harmonizing sustainability and tourism.
Guest Experience
Guests at the Changi Village Bus Hotel are treated to an experience that marries the allure of nostalgia with modern comfort. The rooms, spacious at 45 sq m, offer a sense of coziness and luxury.
Starting at SGD 398 (~ Rs 24,500) per night, visitors can enjoy a room designed to accommodate three, complete with a king-size bed, sofa bed, and even a bathtub.
The hotel also offers unparalleled access to local attractions. A brief stroll will take you to the Changi Village Hawker Centre, Changi East Boardwalk, and the poignant Changi Chapel & Museum, ensuring a rich tapestry of experiences just moments from your doorstep.
The hotel’s proximity to the popular Changi Village Hawker Centre adds a delightful culinary dimension to the stay, providing guests with a taste of local flavors.
At the center, guests can partake in engaging history and nature tours, such as cycling explorations of Pulau Ubin and trishaw rides along the scenic Changi Beach.
For those seeking a blend of leisure and adventure, options like a bicycle and shopping tour at Jewel Changi Airport and sailing escapades at the Changi Sailing Club await, promising an enriching and unforgettable experience.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Mr. Sia envisions expanding the concept of his bus themed hotel beyond its current location. With dreams of repurposing retired buses on adjacent plots in Changi Village and even on neighboring islands like Pulau Ubin and Kusu Island, he expects the Changi Village bus hotel concept to be a trailblazer in sustainable hospitality.
Conclusion
In a world where travel experiences often blur together, the Changi Village bus hotel stands out as a beacon of unique and affordable hospitality. It is one of the most unique hotels in Singapore.
An inspiring story of a former bus driver with a vision, this hotel offers travelers an opportunity to create lasting memories in an environment that celebrates creativity, sustainability, and a sense of wonder.
So why not embark on a journey that promises something truly different? Visit The Bus Collective or explore more online to be a part of this extraordinary experience.
